Why I Started Making My Own CBD Oil (And What I Learned Along the Way)

I’ve always been drawn to natural remedies and plant-based healing, but my journey into making my own CBD oil started after reading a book that changed everything I thought I knew about the products on store shelves.

Most CBD oils on the market are made from industrial hemp—a version of the cannabis plant that’s legal but lacks the potency and full-spectrum benefits of high-CBD flower. Hemp is typically harvested for its stalks and seeds, with less focus on cannabinoid or terpene content. That means many of these oils are weak, missing the full therapeutic punch that cannabis can offer.

What makes CBD oil truly healing is what is found in the flower—the rich, resin-packed buds where cannabinoids like CBD, CBG, and a very small amount of THC live along with powerful terpenes such as myrcene, limonene, and linalool.

These compounds work together in what’s known as the entourage effect, enhancing each other’s benefits and providing a more holistic result than isolated or low-spectrum oils made from industrial hemp. By starting with premium, high-CBD flower, I knew I could make a more effective oil—one that captured the full strength of the plant.

I followed a traditional approach for making full-spectrum CBD oil, beginning with decarboxylation—gently heating the cannabis flower to activate the CBD. Then I infused it into high-phenolic, organic olive oil which is rich in antioxidants and known for its own anti-inflammatory benefits. Amazon.com: P.J. KABOS 2024/25 Harvest, High Phenolic (450+mg/kg), Premium Greek Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Kosher, Greece, Cold Extracted, 16.9 oz Tin, Koroneiki, “Family Reserve – Medium” : Grocery & Gourmet Food

After slow infusing and straining the plant material, I add a custom blend of essential oils:

• Vitamin E for skin nourishment and preservation
• Cinnamon oil for circulation and warmth
• Frankincense for its soothing and spiritually grounding qualities

Interestingly, the book I follow points to a passage in the Bible describing the recipe for holy anointing oil and the author believes one of those ingredients may have been cannabis. It’s easy to imagine how such a healing oil could have been seen as miraculous in ancient times – just as we see CBD used today to help with seizures, inflammation, and pain.

I first made this oil to help my father-in-law with his chronic headaches. It didn’t offer much relief for that issue—but then my mother-in-law tried it on her arthritic hands. Within 15 minutes, the swelling and redness began to fade, and her range of motion improved dramatically. It was one of those magical, affirming moments that convinced me I was onto something real.

Since then, I’ve shared my oil with others dealing with muscle pain, spasms, inflammation, and joint issues, and the feedback has been consistent: the oil works. Especially when used topically.

While edible CBD can be beneficial, topicals are ideal for localized relief. CBD interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the skin and tissues beneath, delivering targeted anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects without entering the bloodstream.

Because I make my oils food-grade, organic, and in a sterile environment, they’re safe to ingest – but in my experience, they shine brightest when applied directly to sore, swollen, or inflamed areas.

What began as a simple experiment has become a passion. I’ve seen the difference between mass-produced, hemp-based oils and small-batch, flower-infused ones—and I’m proud to make a product that’s intentional, potent, and created with care.

There’s still so much more to learn and explore with this plant, and I’m excited to keep sharing that journey with you.

If you’re curious about high-quality, small-batch CBD oil made from full-spectrum cannabis flower, keep an eye on my blog or sign up for my newsletter. I’ll be sharing more behind-the-scenes looks, wellness tips, and updates on upcoming product releases.

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What Is Industrial Hemp?

Industrial hemp refers to specific varieties of the cannabis plant grown for industrial or nutritional purposes—not for getting high. These plants contain very low levels of THC (the compound that causes psychoactive effects). Industrial hemp is incredibly versatile and is used to make textiles, paper, construction materials, plastics, and even food.

What’s the Difference Between Hemp and Marijuana?

Hemp and marijuana both come from the cannabis plant, but they’re grown for different reasons. Hemp contains high levels of CBD and very little THC, while marijuana is bred for high THC content. Think of them as botanical cousins – related, but with totally different lifestyles.

Hemp Oil vs. Full-Spectrum CBD Oil: What’s the Difference?

They may sound similar, but they’re totally different products:

• Hemp seed oil is made from the seeds of the hemp plant. It doesn’t contain cannabinoids like CBD or THC, but it’s rich in nutrients like omega-3s, vitamin E, and protein—great for skin and overall wellness.
• Full-spectrum CBD oil is made from the flowers, leaves, and stems of the hemp plant. It contains cannabinoids, including CBD and trace amounts of THC. It’s commonly used for stress, pain, sleep, and inflammation support.

How Does CBD Oil Help with Muscle Pain and Inflammation?

CBD interacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating pain, inflammation, and muscle function.

Here’s how it may help:

• Pain relief – CBD may reduce how your body perceives pain by interacting with certain receptors.
• Muscle relaxation – It may act as a natural muscle relaxant by calming overactive nerves and helping ease spasms.
• Anti-inflammatory – CBD is believed to reduce inflammation by affecting immune system responses. For example, studies show CBD applied topically help reduce joint pain and swelling in arthritis.

While more research is needed, many users report noticeable relief from CBD use – especially when paired with rest and proper hydration.

What Is Decarboxylation (and Why Should I Care)?

Decarboxylation, or “decarbing,” is a fancy word for heating cannabis to activate its key compounds.

Raw cannabis contains THCA and CBDA, which aren’t active in their natural form. When heated—like when smoking or baking—THCA becomes THC, and CBDA becomes CBD. Without decarbing, you won’t feel the effects.

A quick breakdown:

• Smoking or vaping = instant decarboxylation
• Making edibles or oils = you must decarb first for them to work

So yes, if you skip this step when making brownies… they won’t do much except taste like grass.

Still curious about hemp or CBD?
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CBD Oils Archives – Gloria’s Flower